The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) has worked with Tactile Imaging to produce a tactile version of the Pillars of Creation. Together, we have produced a limited number of small tactile panels (12" x 12") meant for distribution around the country for use in facilitated experiences. We have produced the panels primarily to expand access to astronomy resources for people who are blind or visually impaired, but can and will provide new ways to access the content for most people.
STScI will be sending these panels for free to museums, science centers, libraries, and other sites of informal learning in the United States. This form is for organizations to request a panel for use with their audience and identify their audience needs or plans for using it with an audience. Sites chosen will be shipped the 12" x 12" panel and will receive additional materials electronically including some tips on using the panel with an audience, and background information about the Pillars of Creation.
STScI aims to distribute the panels to a wide range of venues and audiences with a particular focus on reaching non-traditional audiences such as people who are blind or visually impaired. Organizations must be non-profit site of informal learning that work directly with the public and located inside of the United States to receive a panel. Sites that meet these criteria will be chosen on a first come, first served basis.
Organizations that receive a panel will be asked to provide information on their experience using the panel. This should be brief (approximately 100-200 words) and describe how they were used, how the audiences received them, and/or feedback on how to improve the panels or associated materials if these are created again.
After submitting this form, the point of contact will receive an e-mail within two weeks informing them of the status of their interest statement.
The panels sent out will become the property of the recipient organization. We encourage the recipient organization to continue finding use for the panel and consider how it may used with future panels, but there is no obligation placed upon the recipient.
